This weekend's snow report is coming from a bit more local, La Vattay in the Jura. Based on the cold temperatures and strong winds, we decided to keep warm this weekend with nordic skiing nearby.
About 20 miles away, just over to the other side of the Jura, the area around La Vattay has over 140 kilometers of groomed trails for classic and skate nordic skiing. We brought our classic skis on the move over, and have finally gotten out to use them. Today was the first time either of us had skied groomed trails...should be an adventure.
We made two 8k blue loops and spent some time practicing on green runs. I was really surprised by the variety of the terrain...and the amount of uphill climbing...it kept us warm.
Up at 1300 meters there was strong wind in the open, but our second loop was mostly wooded. In low pine branches, I spotted a sweet little crested tit and a creeper (these are cute little birds, and the crested tit is a new species for the life-list).
My arms were exhausted by the end of the afternoon...I think we'll have a few sore spots this week, both from use and a couple not-so-graceful spills. Vin chaud in the sun to top off our winter fun, and back down the mountain to potpies waiting to warm our bellies. Next weekend's forecast: new snow and warmer temperatures, so back to downhill, perhaps. Bon ski!
